Internet Phenomenon of the Year: Isa Leshko's Elderly Animals

"Understanding how and why certain photographers and certain bodies of work manage to stick in our collective consciousness is a challenge in today’s what’s-next culture. Photographers now have more ways to get their work seen, but it’s also harder than ever to know what kind of exposure is most likely to help them achieve their goals. So what makes a photographer’s style or a body of work stick in people’s minds? How does their audience grow and expand? How does an idea in the head of a photographer spawn ideas in the heads of viewers and, eventually, make a mark on the medium?

In an effort to answer these questions we looked at six photographers and projects that seemed to be on everyone’s mind this year, and considered how and why. We also spoke with a handful of people—from editors to curators to branding experts—to find out how they discovered the projects they’ve championed. Below, we speak with Isa Leshko about her series “Elderly Animals.”"

Thank you Dorrena for this wonderful, and touching piece. All the while watching the clip I couldn't help but relate to my work, and the importance of exercising the highest degree of repsect and dignity to the elder population that I work with every day. It was phenomenal!

Rick, We treat ageing like it is a disease. It's hard to face the end of our lives but when we live a long life we have things to share and leave behind. Memories and stories. I wish you could find a way to work photography into it. Maybe with permission, family gatherings, or pictures taken around the place you work. I bet you would do a great job.

I'm always confused when people are reluctant to reveal their age; it should be a source of pride. I'm shocked that I've made it as long as I have.

As for the photography, I really love this. Some use it to preserve moments and extend our presence in the world, and then there are people like this who put what we try to deny right in the limelight.